I. ˈrəs(ə)liŋ, -lēŋ noun
( -s )
Etymology: Middle English rouschelynge, from gerund of rustelen, rustlen, rouschelen to rustle — more at rustle
1. : the continuous small clear sounds made by movement
the rustlings of the birds
2. : the stealing of cattle
this story of ranch life, rustling … and mystery — Saturday Review
II. adjective
Etymology: from present participle of rustle (I)
: making continuous small clear sounds
rustling silk
rustling leaves
• rus·tling·ly adverb